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Discover the tales of the stars at Wales’s legendary sites

Discover the tales of the stars at Wales’s legendary sites

Friday 08 September 2017

Stargazing with Cadw

A series of stargazing events will take place at five legendary Welsh castles this autumn, allowing visitors to study the stars and explore the historic monuments after dark.

The programme of twilight events will bring late-night stargazing sessions to the grounds of Strata Florida Abbey, Rhuddlan Castle, Tintern Abbey, Harlech Castle and Raglan Castle from Friday, September 15 to Friday, November 24.

The Welsh Government’s historic environment service (Cadw) has teamed up with Dark Sky Wales to host the unique events which will allow attendees to discover the stories of Wales’s night-time skies within the grounds of some of the country’s most beautiful monuments.

Limited tickets have been made available for the starlight sessions, which will run from dusk until 10pm* at each venue. Astronomy enthusiasts and novices alike can book tickets by calling each site directly.

Highlights will include the opportunity to view familiar and unfamiliar constellations of the northern hemisphere and find various deep sky objects such as Orion Nebula.

Plus, there will be demonstrations on how to use binoculars, telescopes and star maps and opportunities to photograph some of the most magnificent sights in the night sky.

Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure in Wales, said: “This series of stargazing events is an opportunity to see some of Wales’s monumental sites in a completely different light, combining culture and heritage with astronomy.

“Cadw’s stargazing events will give locals and visitors the chance to find out more about the night sky within the walls of five of Wales’s top historic attractions, where they will also discover more about the legendary history of Wales.”

Visitors are encouraged to share their legendary experiences on social media by using the hashtag #LivetheLegends.

*Event times vary per site

Event listings

Stargaze with Cadw at Strata Florida Abbey15 September 20178pm – 10pmAttendees are asked to arrive from 7.45pm in warm clothes and suitable footwear. Visitors are also advised to bring a torch and a blanket.Sessions are suitable for adults and children aged 12 and above. Children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. Tickets cost £5.00 per person.To book your place call Strata Florida Abbey on: 01974 831261.

Stargaze with Cadw at Rhuddlan Castle22 September 20178pm – 10pmAttendees are asked to arrive from 7.45pm in warm clothes and suitable footwear. Visitors are also advised to bring a torch and a blanket.Sessions are suitable for adults and children aged 12 and above. Children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. Tickets cost £10.00 per person.To book your place call Rhuddlan Castle on: 01745 590777.

Stargaze with Cadw at Tintern Abbey20 October 20178pm – 10pmAttendees are asked to arrive from 7.45pm in warm clothes and suitable footwear. Visitors are also advised to bring a torch and a blanket.Sessions are suitable for adults and children aged 12 and above. Children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. Tickets cost £10.00 per person.To book your place call Tintern Abbey on: 01291 689251.

Stargaze with Cadw at Harlech Castle17 November 20177pm – 9pmAttendees are asked to arrive from 6.45pm in warm clothes and suitable footwear. Visitors are also advised to bring a torch and a blanket.Sessions are suitable for adults and children aged 12 and above. Children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. Tickets cost £10.00 per person.To book your place call Harlech Castle on: 01766 780552.

Stargaze with Cadw at Raglan Castle24 November 20177pm – 9pmAttendees are asked to arrive from 6.45pm in warm clothes and suitable footwear. Visitors are also advised to bring a torch and a blanket.Sessions are suitable for adults and children aged 12 and above. Children under 16 should be accompanied by an adult. Tickets cost £10.00 per person.To book your place call Raglan Castle on: 01291 690228.